What causes hickeys?
In case you are not familiar with them, hickeys are bruise-like marks that appear on the skin. They are caused by intense sucking or biting of the skin, which leads to broken blood vessels just beneath the surface. The resulting red or purple mark is what we commonly call a hickey.
How long do hickeys last?
The duration of a hickey varies from person to person. Generally, it takes about 5-12 days for hickeys to heal completely. However, there are several remedies you can use to speed up the healing process.
Home remedies to remove hickeys
- Cold Compress: Applying a cold compress to the hickey as soon as possible can help reduce swelling and minimize the appearance of the bruise. Wrap some ice cubes in a cloth and gently press it against the hickey for 10-15 minutes every few hours.
- Toothbrush Massage: Gently rubbing the hickey with a soft-bristled toothbrush can help disperse the trapped blood and stimulate blood circulation. Be sure to apply only light pressure to avoid further irritation.
- Aloe Vera Gel: Known for its soothing properties, applying aloe vera gel to the hickey can help promote faster healing. Simply extract the gel from an aloe vera leaf and gently massage it onto the affected area a few times a day.
Over-the-counter remedies
If the home remedies do not provide satisfactory results, you can consider trying over-the-counter remedies specifically designed for bruise treatment. These may include creams or ointments containing vitamin K or arnica, which are known for their healing properties.
Concealing hickeys
If you need a quick fix or don’t have time to wait for the hickey to heal, there are several ways to conceal it:
- Makeup: Utilize a color corrector followed by foundation and concealer to camouflage the hickey. Opt for a green color corrector to neutralize redness, and use a shade that matches your skin tone for the foundation and concealer.
- Turtle Neck or Scarf: If weather permits, wearing a turtleneck or scarf can effectively hide a hickey.
- Hairstyle: Adjusting your hairstyle to cover the hickey can also be a temporary solution. Consider wearing your hair down or styling it in a way that hides the hickey.
While hickeys can be unsightly, the good news is that they can fade away with time or the help of some remedies. Remember to consider your own comfort level when choosing a removal method, and be patient as the healing process takes its course. If you have reservations or experience excessive pain, consult a healthcare professional for further advice.